Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set Review: The Ultimate Durable Percussion for Budding Musicians
If you are a parent, grandparent, or educator, you have likely faced the “toy graveyard” dilemma. You want to foster a love for music, but most instruments marketed for children are either cheap plastic trinkets that sound like a broken radio or delicate, expensive professional gear that wouldn’t last five minutes in a playroom. I remember the frustration of watching my youngest child attempt to “play” a standard wooden bongo set, only to have the animal skin head tear and the heavy wood shells become a safety hazard for their toes. The search for a middle ground—a real musical instrument that is safe, tuneful, and virtually indestructible—is what led us to the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set. Solving this problem is crucial because early rhythmic exposure is tied to cognitive development, yet a “dead” sounding toy can quickly extinguish a child’s interest in music altogether. Without the right balance of durability and authentic tone, you’re often just buying another piece of plastic destined for the landfill.
- Synthetic head does not fluctuate in pitch With temperature and humidity changes
- Heads are tuned during manufacture for maximum sound allowing for a great musical experience
Choosing the Right Percussion for Kids: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
A Bongo set is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for developing motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and a fundamental understanding of rhythm. Unlike electronic toys that play pre-recorded loops, a bongo set requires physical interaction and provides immediate acoustic feedback. This tactile experience is irreplaceable in a child’s early education. However, not all bongos are created equal. When we looked for the perfect starter set, we realized that the market is flooded with products that look like drums but lack the structural integrity to withstand the “enthusiasm” of a toddler who might decide the drum is actually a stepping stool or a helmet.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenge of entertaining a child aged 7 months to 8 years, while it might not be suitable for those who are seeking a professional, tunable studio instrument for recording high-fidelity Latin jazz. If you are a professional percussionist looking for nuanced overtones and high-tension slaps, you might consider professional-grade alternatives. But for a household where the drums will be licked, kicked, and drummed on with anything from hands to wooden spoons, the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set is a standout choice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The footprint of the drum set is vital for both playability and storage. A set that is too large will be difficult for a 3-year-old to straddle or hold, while something too small won’t provide the necessary distinction between the high (macho) and low (hembra) tones. You want a set that is substantial enough to feel “real” but light enough for a child to carry from room to room.
- Capacity/Performance: In the world of percussion, “capacity” refers to the range of sounds the drum can produce. Look for pre-tuned heads that offer a clear contrast between the two drums. Since children won’t know how to tune a drum (and parents likely don’t want the hassle), a set that sounds good right out of the box and maintains that pitch regardless of weather is a major performance metric.
- Materials & Durability: Traditional bongos use wood and rawhide. For kids, these are problematic. Wood can crack or splinter, and rawhide is sensitive to humidity, becoming “dead” or “soggy” in damp weather. Modern synthetic materials like Acousticon and synthetic suede are far superior for longevity and consistent sound in a domestic or institutional environment.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider whether the instrument requires specialized tools or regular maintenance. For children’s gear, “zero maintenance” is the gold standard. You want a surface that can be wiped down easily (especially if it’s being used by toddlers) and a design that doesn’t include small, sharp, or easily loosened parts that could become a choking hazard.
After evaluating dozens of options, we found that the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set hits the “sweet spot” for most families and schools. It transitions perfectly from a simple sensory toy for an infant to a legitimate rhythm-learning tool for an elementary student. To see how this model compares to the broader market of percussion instruments, you can check the latest price and availability to see if it fits your current budget.
While the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Material: Bongo drums made of high quality, weatherproof and durable wood and metal, which translates to improved sound quality as well as sturdiness and durability. And our tops will not tear out or...
- Material: Bongo drums made of high quality, weatherproof and durable wood and metal, which translates to improved sound quality as well as sturdiness and durability.and our tops will not tear out or...
- Material: Bongo drums use naturally produced wood, which is safe and pleasant. At the same time, the bongo drum retains a more real sound quality and melody, with fine texture, and the metal fittings...
Unboxing the Rhythm Club: First Look at the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set
When the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set arrived at our studio, the first thing that struck us was the weight. At just 1.7 pounds, it feels incredibly manageable, yet it doesn’t feel “flimsy.” The “Rhythm Club” graphics are bright and engaging without looking overly “kiddy,” which is a plus for children who want to feel like they are playing a “real” instrument. Upon unboxing, there is zero assembly required—they are ready to play immediately. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a sense of the visual appeal these drums offer.
The build quality is immediately apparent. The shells are made of Acousticon, a proprietary Remo material made from recycled wood fibers, which is much more durable than cheap plywood. The base is fitted with a molded black rubber ring that serves two purposes: it prevents the drums from sliding on a hardwood floor and it raises the shells just enough to allow the sound to resonate properly. Compared to standard wooden bongos that often have sharp metal hardware, the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set is remarkably smooth and safe, with recessed bolts that are well out of reach of curious little fingers.
Key Benefits
- Extremely durable Acousticon shell construction that withstands heavy drops and “smashing.”
- Weather-resistant Suede drumheads that maintain pitch in any climate.
- Safe, kid-friendly design with no sharp edges and recessed hardware.
- Rubberized base allows for resonance even when played on flat surfaces.
Limitations
- Pre-tuned heads cannot be adjusted for specific musical pitches.
- Sound can be somewhat muted if played on thick carpeting.
Putting the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set to the Test
We put the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set through a rigorous testing phase that mirrored the life of a typical playroom. We didn’t just play it with proper hand technique; we let kids use mallets, we dropped it, and we even tested its “separation” feature. This is where the product truly earns its stripes as a specialized tool for young musicians.
Built Like a Tank: Acousticon Shells and Rubberized Safety
One of the most impressive aspects we found during our evaluation is the material choice. Remo uses its patented Acousticon shells for the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set. In our testing, this material proved significantly more resilient than the thin wood or plastic found in many competitor models. We’ve seen these drums survive being used as “stepping stones” and even being tossed across a room. The structural integrity is further bolstered by the black molded rubber base. This base is a game-changer for home use. Most bongos need to be held between the knees to sound good because the bottom of the shell must be open to let air move. However, young children usually play with the drums sitting on the floor. The rubber feet on the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set create a small gap between the floor and the shell, allowing the sound to escape even when the drum is sitting flat. We found this to be a thoughtful piece of engineering that solves a common usability issue for toddlers. We noticed that the durability is a frequent highlight in user feedback, with many parents reporting that the drums still look and sound new after years of heavy use.
The Science of Sound: Pre-Tuned Suede Heads and Weather Resistance
As musicians, we were curious to see how a “toy” bongo would actually sound. While these won’t replace a $300 set of LP Generation II bongos, the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set produces a surprisingly clear and distinct tone. The two heads (5″ and 6″) are pre-tuned to a high and low pitch. We found that the “Suede” synthetic heads provide a matte texture that feels good under the fingers and, more importantly, doesn’t fluctuate with temperature changes. Whether it was a humid afternoon or a dry, air-conditioned room, the pitch remained consistent. One insight we gained from our testing—which was confirmed by several users—is that these drums sound significantly better when played with wooden mallets rather than just hands. When played with hands, the sound is a bit “dry” or muted, especially for a small child who hasn’t developed the “slap” technique. However, with a pair of mallets, the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set sings with a bright, percussive pop that is incredibly satisfying. This is a feature that really sets it apart from the dull “thud” of cheaper plastic alternatives.
Adaptability in Play: A Modular Two-Drum System
A feature that isn’t immediately obvious but proved to be incredibly useful is the ability to separate the two drums. The Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set is held together by internal bolts and wingnuts. For an 8-month-old who is just learning to sit up, the full bongo set might be too wide to manage. We found that we could easily unscrew the drums and give the child just one drum to focus on. As they grow and their reach expands, you can bolt them back together. This modularity extends the life of the product significantly. Furthermore, the internal hardware is recessed deeply enough that even if a child is playing with a single drum, they can’t reach the bolts or wingnuts, keeping the experience safe. We also noted that the drums can be nested (one inside the other) when separated, which is a great space-saving tip for those with smaller playrooms. This level of versatility is rare in the “kids instrument” category and is a major reason why we recommend this specific model.
Institutional Strength: From the Living Room to the Classroom
Finally, we evaluated how the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set holds up in a group setting. Many daycare centers and music schools use these because they are “institutional grade.” In our simulated group environment, the drums were wiped down with disinfectant wipes repeatedly, and the finish showed no signs of peeling or fading. The fact that the heads are synthetic means they don’t harbor bacteria like porous rawhide can, making them much more hygienic for shared use. If you are looking for a drum that can survive the “chaos” of a preschool music class, this is undoubtedly the model to choose. The combination of the Acousticon shell and the synthetic Suede head creates a drum that is essentially “set it and forget it” for the busy parent or teacher.
Voices from the Playroom: What Other Users Are Saying
The general sentiment for the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set is overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding its longevity. One user shared a story of buying these for their 2-year-old grandson who was using paint cans as drums; that child is now 8 years old, and the drums are still in use, proving that these are not “disposable” toys. This aligns with our findings that the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set is a multi-year investment rather than a fleeting distraction.
Other users highlighted the safety aspects. One grandmother noted that the interior bolts and wingnuts are deep enough inside the shell that her 7-month-old granddaughter couldn’t possibly get them in her mouth or loosen them. This “baby-proof” construction is a recurring theme in reviews. On the negative side, a few users mentioned that the sound is “dead” when played on a rug. This confirms our expert finding: because the sound resonates out of the bottom of the shells, a thick rug acts as a muffler. However, as many users pointed out, for a $20–$30 price point, expecting professional-grade studio sound is unrealistic. Most parents are thrilled that the drums make a “satisfyingly loud sound” that isn’t grating or annoyingly shrill. The consensus is clear: if you use them on a hard surface or with mallets, the sound quality is more than sufficient for its intended purpose. For those interested in seeing more real-world examples, you can read additional user experiences here.
How the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set Compares to the Competition
While we are huge fans of the Remo model for kids, there are other options on the market depending on your specific needs. Here is how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.
1. Meinl Percussion Professional Bongo Drums
- OUR MOST SOLID BONGOS: their hard-to-damage, thick synthetic shells can take a lot more abuse than traditional wood; plus, they won't expand or contract during changes in weather which can affect...
- WHY IT MATTERS: you get to play more without hassle since the bongos require little to no maintenance; Journey Series Bongos are always ready to go from beaches to parks to open mic night
The Meinl Professional Bongos are a completely different beast. Unlike the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set, these are designed for adults and serious beginners. They feature synthetic shells but come with tunable heads and a tuning wrench. While they are significantly more expensive and “not made in China,” they offer the tonal range that a professional musician would require. If you are buying for a teenager or an adult who wants to actually join a band, the Meinl is the better choice. However, for a 5-year-old, the Meinl’s heavy hardware and tuning requirements make it overkill and potentially less safe due to the exposed metal parts.
2. RockJam 7 & 8 Inch Wood Bongo Drums
- 7 and 8 inch bongo drums: paired wood shell hand drums for beginners, kids, adults and percussionists.
- Tunable caprine skin heads: authentic drum heads with included tuning key for a range of tones.
The RockJam set is a more traditional take on the bongo, utilizing real wood and animal skin heads. It even comes with a padded bag. For a student who wants the “authentic” look and feel of traditional percussion, this is a strong contender. However, compared to the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set, the RockJam is much more fragile. The skin heads are susceptible to tearing if hit with a heavy mallet or dropped, and the wood can crack if subjected to extreme temperature changes. We recommend the RockJam for responsible older children (10+) but stick with Remo for the younger, more “destructive” age groups.
3. Eastar Bongo Drums 6″ & 7″ Congas
- 🥁Made of superior solid wood: The bongo drum has a very crisp and bright sound, good durability and also allows the drums to sing at the same time.
- 🥁Suitable for all ages: This bongo drum set has no sharp edges, and the inside of the drum is polished into a smooth arc shape, which is safe for children and will not scratch hands. it is suitable...
The Eastar set sits somewhere in the middle. It offers a larger size (6″ and 7″) and features traditional wood construction with a nice black finish. It includes a bag and a tuning wrench, making it a “complete kit” for a beginner. While it offers a more “mature” look than the Remo Rhythm Club series, it lacks the specialized rubberized base that allows the Remo to sound good on a floor. If your child will be sitting at a table or using a stand, the Eastar is a great value. But for floor play, the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set remains the king of convenience and durability.
Final Thoughts: Is the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set the Best Choice for Your Child?
After our deep dive and extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set is the gold standard for introductory percussion. It successfully bridges the gap between a toy and a musical instrument. Its main strengths lie in its nearly indestructible Acousticon shells, its weather-resistant synthetic heads, and a clever design that prioritizes child safety without sacrificing acoustic resonance. While it isn’t a professional recording instrument, and it performs best on hard surfaces rather than carpet, these are minor trade-offs for a product that can survive a decade of use in a playroom or classroom.
If you want to give a child a gift that fosters creativity, develops coordination, and won’t end up in pieces by next week, this is the set to get. We have seen these drums ignite a genuine passion for rhythm in children as young as 18 months, and that is a value that far exceeds its modest price tag. Don’t settle for “toy” drums that sound like cardboard; invest in a piece of equipment from a brand that professionals trust. To get your budding musician started on the right foot, we highly recommend you grab the Remo RH-5600-00 Bongo Drum Set today and let the rhythm begin!
Last update on 2026-08-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API